In preparation, I have been reflecting on my own independent publishing journey and the many mentors and resources I used to learn how to self-publish professionally.

With that, I’ve made this one-page self-publishing quick guide for all who are looking at self-publishing and saying, “What do the heck am I doing?” (download here).

As you’ll notice, there aren’t a lot of details. This guide is meant to help you know what to look up and research along the way, a guide to get you started.

However, the magic of the internet allows a lot more space than one-page. I’m not going to go in depth for each one, but I’m going to at least provide some online resources that will point you in the right direction.

If you have another great resource for new writers, please comment below.

If you have any further questions on any of these, please comment as well. I will either attempt to answer your question there or put together another blog post to go in more detail.

Writer’s Digest – Industry magazine. I don’t always agree with the advice and it tries to sell you on a lot of classes and paid resources, but there’s some good industry info in here – www.writersdigest.com

Great info on the industry – http://maryrobinettekowal.com/series/debut-author/

Have you worked with Critique Partners?

A critique partner is a fellow writer you can exchange chapters with and dig deep on major story issues. They can be a great partner in your writing journey.

Beta readers are readers and writers who can tell you if your character, plot, and overall writing is working. Many authors use beta readers at different stages – some as a final check, some as a check between drafts.

Lol this reminds me of the intense process it takes to start your own business. I’ve begun mentoring VAs on the side and it really is just SO much information and when you’ve been through it, you look over your shoulder and think, “Oh my gosh, that was a lot of work.”

But something like you just created will be very, very useful for anyone who is starting out – so kudos for sharing!